What’s Your Sign? and other Bad Ways to Pick Up A Client

January 15, 2008

Have you been applying everywhere you can and still getting no response?

You may need some work on your “pick up line” before you start getting bites on your writing services. Just like in the dating scene, your introduction to a potential client can ruin your chances for getting any further.

From what I’ve discovered, a lot of people are making very basic mistakes when they are applying for jobs including:

*not proofreading their e-mail

*sending a one line “i’m interested. what’s the pay?” response. (This is seriously a response my client got recently and the lack of capitalization is intentional)

*not reading the details of the job requirements

*asking the client to contact you if they are interested in you, without providing enough for them to make that decision

Based on some discussions I’ve had with some clients, and from my own experience in hiring writers for projects, there are some of you out there who need to brush up on the basics. Here are the major guidelines for making that all important first contact.

*Realize that your clients are busy, busy people.

When someone posts a request for writers on a forum or places an ad on Craiglist, they are flooded with responses. You aren’t unique. You’re one of many dozens if not hundreds of applicants. They don’t have time to read through a lengthy letter that explains why you were inspired to write, who your favorite authors are and your personal philosophy on web content. Keep your e-mail short and to the point.

*If you don’t cover the basics, they won’t get back to you.

Even though you want to keep your e-mail succinct, it’s important to include everything that a person will need to make a decision on hiring you. A short resume, your rates, samples (either attached or links to where they are posted) and contact info are absolutely essential. Forget any of these are you are destined for the recycle bin.

*Be respectful

If a person is offering a low rate, don’t berate them for their stupidity. Some of the behavior I’ve seen on forums is nowhere near professional. Give you information and let them know you’d love to work with them if their budget ever grows. I’ve done this a few times and when the client gets tired of $3 who are dropping the ball, they’ve been more than happy to pay for quality work.

*Make yourself stand out with a simple “connection” statement.

Yes, I did say not to go on and on about your experiences. But if you have a connection to a topic, let the client know (briefly!). For example:

“I know that I can provide you with great articles on natural childbirth. Having had both of my daughters at home and studying a lot about the subject, I can draw from my personal bank of knowledge to make your articles unique.”

Before throwing in the towel and declaring that there isn’t work out there, evaluate your pick up strategy and make a better first contact.

Posted in Techniques and Tips